The fourth edition of IRONMAN 70.3 Syracuse takes place in the heart of New York State this Sunday. This challenging race presents a stage to showcase the beauty and countless recreational opportunities in the region.

High octane Norden

Sweden’s Lisa Norden will highlight the women’s field in New York State on Sunday. Norden has arguably been the finest short course female athlete over the last three years. In 2012 the 28-year-old captured two World Triathlon Series titles and was crowned the ITU World Triathlon Series women’s champion. She also came within .0009 of a second of an Olympic gold medal in London. The silver medalist went on to win the prestigious Hy-Vee Triathlon 5i50 triathlon, with its rich payday, for the second year in a row.

Norden was to make her IRONMAN 70.3 debut at U.S. Pro Championships in St. George, but a lingering foot injury put a stop to that plan. This week the strong cyclist will be competing in the women’s time trial event at the Swedish National Cycling Championships to test her cycling fitness before heading to Syracuse for her anticipated debut at IRONMAN 70.3 racing.

Smoking Joe Gambles

In the men’s race Joe Gambles (AUS) will return to New York State to defend the title and will be the man to beat. Gambles comes into the race fresh off a hard-fought win at at a half-distance race in Connecticut two weeks ago. The 2010 IRONMAN Wisconsin champion notched three 70.3 wins in 2012 (Boulder, Timberman and Syracuse) and looks to be on his way to another stellar season on the 70.3 circuit.

Professional men’s field

1 Joe Gambles USA

3 Ryan Bates USA

4 John Polson AUS

5 Jack Smith USA

6 Tim Snow USA

7 Jimi Minnema USA

8 James LaMastra USA

9 Logan Franks USA

10 Ryan Rau USA

11 Patrick Wheeler USA

12 Mike Caiazzo USA

13 Doug Maclean USA

15 Keith Butsko USA

16 Chad Holderbaum USA

17 Greg Close USA

18 Sam Douglas AUS

19 Kyle Pawlaczyk USA

20 Mike Hermanson USA

21 Joel Jameson GBR

Professional women’s field

31 Lisa Norden SWE

32 Dede Griesbauer USA

33 Robin Sandos USA

34 Molly Roohi USA

35 Suzanne Serpico USA

36 Amanda Kourtz USA

37 Danielle Ohlson USA

38 Jennie Hansen USA

39 Heather Leiggi USA

Visit the IRONMAN 70.3 Syracuse event page for more information about the course, professional ranking points, prize purse and age group qualifying slots. Join the conversation on Twitter using #IM703Syracuse and check back on race day for text updates and to track your athlete.